The Scientific Method Flashcards
(24 cards)
What is the scientific method?
A series of steps used by scientists to investigate a problem or research question.
What happens in Step 1: Formulate a Question?
A problem or research question is identified.
Why is Step 2: Research important?
It checks if similar experiments have been done and helps understand related scientific concepts.
What is a hypothesis?
A testable prediction based on observations.
What is a variable?
Any measurable quantity or characteristic that can differ in amount or type.
What is an independent variable?
The variable changed by the experimenter; plotted on the x-axis.
What is a dependent variable?
The variable measured by the experimenter; plotted on the y-axis.
What is a controlled variable?
A variable kept constant to ensure a fair test.
What is a control in an experiment?
A setup without the independent variable, used for comparison.
What are the two main types of experimental error.
Systematic errors and random errors.
What is a systematic error?
An error that consistently skews results due to faulty instruments or procedures.
Give an example of a systematic error.
A miscalibrated ruler or stopwatch giving consistently wrong readings.
What is a random error?
An unpredictable variation in measurement, affecting precision.
Give an example of a random error.
Reading fluctuations on a balance or differences in gummy bear mass.
What is accuracy?
How close a measurement is to the true value.
What is precision?
How consistent repeated measurements are.
Which type of error affects accuracy?
Systematic errors.
Which type of error affects precision?
Random errors.
How can you reduce random errors?
Repeat measurements and use large sample sizes to calculate averages.
Why is repetition important in experiments?
It increases reliability and supports valid conclusions.
What happens during Step 5: Analyze Data?
Organize and assess data to determine reliability and support for the hypothesis.
What are the two main types of data?
Quantitative and qualitative.
What happens during Step 6: Draw Conclusions?
Use evidence to determine if the hypothesis is supported or disproven.
What makes a conclusion valid?
It is based on reproducible results that consistently support the hypothesis.
